Ms. Lois Jean York

Lois was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters - Louise York and Lucille York: three brothers – Rev. Arthur Lee York, Charles York Jr., and Richard York.

She leaves to cherish her memories: two sisters – Laura York and Catherine York, a goddaughter – Arlene York along with a host of nieces and nephews. A very dear friend, Eddie Meadows, a great niece, Linda Scott, a roommate – Courtland Scott and a bundle of cousins, caregivers, friends and a loving church family.

As a very young child, Lois realized something about herself that would never change; happiness only comes to her when she’s helping others. Lois’ charitable nature led her straight into a nursing career. Lois followed in the footsteps of her role model – her grandmother, who worked as a nurse. Lois joined St. Joseph Hospital in 1961 as a full time licensed vocational nurse in the medical surgical area. Ten years later, she entered The University of Texas School of Nursing at Houston and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. She continued to work at St. Joseph’s Hospital in the obstetrical and gynecology unit where she was chosen “Employee of the Month” by her fellow employee and hospital staff.

In addition to her regular nursing duties, Lois became a Board-Certified Lactation Consultant and the official Lactation Consultant for St. Joseph’s. In this role, she consulted with new mothers in the Family Birth Center. She is also She is also a consultant and legal liaison to sexual assault victims, having completed a Sexual Assault Examiner’s course in 1983.

Yor’s caring nature extended far beyond the hospital doors. In 1984, she blessed Brentwood by becoming a member. It is at Brentwood where she has devoted much of her time and energy to various ministries. In 1990, Rev. M.E. Williams asked her to serve as the director of the LOVE (Laypersons’ Opportunity for Visitation and Exchange) Ministry. Lois liked to emphasize the “exchange” portion of the acronym. She said that is all about the exchange of love by sharing and caring. This ministry serves those persons who are sick and shut-in as well as those suffering from long term illnesses.

When Lois took over the reigns of the LOVE Ministry in 1990, it was fledging. She remembered how much it felt like a one-man show. She stated, “When I started, the sick, shut-in and death list was a handwritten list that I compiled weekly,” Lois recalled. “But with prayers and God’s help, the ministry grew.”

In 1992, along with other Brentwood member, Lois embarked on a medical missionary journey to Shulah, Mississippi to help flood victims. She considered this mission one of the most meaningful things she had done in her life.

That same year, the LOVE Ministry began an annual end-of-the-year reception for all Brentwood members who have lost loved ones and have loved ones suffering from long-term illnesses. Lois’ philosophy of life is simple: “Think as you go because you’ll never pass this way no more.” She stated that the things you do and say have a great impact on the lives of others, and as Christians we must be mindful of all the things we say and do. She attributed Brentwood with helping her to “grow to please God.”

In November of 1999, Lois received the Rev. Leroy Woodard Humanitarian Award for her selfless efforts in helping others. That spring, she was inducted into the Top Ladies of Distinction. Lois’ favorite Bible verse was Matthew 5:16, “Let you light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.”

Truly, Lois’ light shined brightly in the community and at Brentwood until the onset of her health challenges.